Masters In Coaching Podcast

Masters In Coaching Podcast- Episode LXXXIV

Tim Cates sits down with USD Beach Volleyball head coach Derek Olson for an in-depth conversation about a life built around the sport. Olson reflects on his journey from player to coach, including formative stops at Cal and the University of Washington, where he helped shape competitive programs and sharpen his coaching identity. Now, Olson faces his biggest challenge yet: building USD’s Division I beach volleyball program from the ground up. With the Toreros not scheduled to play their first match until 2027, he shares what it takes to start a program from scratch—recruiting, establishing standards, and laying a foundation built to last. Olson also dives into how earning his Master’s in Coaching and Exercise Science from Concordia University Irvine has influenced his philosophy, coaching style, and approach to culture-building. It’s a thoughtful, behind-the-scenes look at long-term program development, leadership, and the patience required to build something meaningful before the first whistle ever blows.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters In Coaching Podcast- Episode LXXXIII

Join host Tim Cates on this powerful episode of the Masters in Coaching Podcast as he sits down with Andrew Parker, head golf coach at Woodbridge High School. Coach Parker shares his inspiring coaching journey — from his early days as an educator to his time as a hockey referee, to then taking over as a high school golf coach despite limited experience playing golf himself. In a heartfelt conversation, he opens up about how his team faced a devastating tragedy, and how the players, coaches, and community came together to support each other and ultimately win a CIF Championship. Coach Parker also reflects on how he is currently going through the Master’s in Coaching and Athletic Administration (MCAA) Program at Concordia University Irvine, and how it’s shaping his philosophy, leadership style, and commitment to building not just better athletes — but better people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters In Coaching Podcast- Episode LXXXI

Tim Cates sits down with JT Ayers, the highly respected head coach of the track and field program at Trabuco Hills High School. Known for building one of the top high school programs in Orange County, JT shares insights into his coaching philosophy, the success behind his speed and performance training, and his passion for developing young athletes both physically and mentally. A key highlight of the conversation is JT’s journey through the Master’s in Coaching and Athletic Administration (MCAA) program at Concordia University Irvine. He reflects on how the experience shaped his approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of continued education for coaches.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters In Coaching Podcast- Episode LXXXI California Coaches Conference

A special LIVE podcast from the California Coaches Conference. Tim Cates hosts a panel discussion with CIF Southern Section Commissioner Mike West, former Harvard Westlake HS girls basketball coach Melissa Hearlihy, longtime San Clemente HS AD Jon Hamro and United Christian Academy AD Juan Denny.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Masters In Coaching Podcast- Episode LXXX

Tim Cates sits down with longtime high school basketball coach and current Mater Dei HS Athletic Director Kevin Kiernan. Over his coaching career he has won 900 games, 12 CIF-SS titles, 6 CIF-State championshps and 2 National Championships in girls basketball. Kevin helped build the girls basketball program at Troy HS and has spent the last 17 years at Mater Dei where in 2024 he was named the WBCA National GBB HS Coach of the Year. Kevin has had many players go on to play college basketball and has seen several former players make it to the WNBA. Since 2021, Kevin has been serving as Athletic Director at Mater Dei, overseeing one of the biggest brands in high school sports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.